In activating social security policies, the unemployed are no longer expected to undergo interventions or treatment but are expected to contribute actively to their return to the labour market. The main efficiency rationale behind this shift is the idea, based on New Public Management (NPM), that increased levels of involvement improve placement results over time. With this shift, the instruments for the delivery of services have also undergone a conspicuous change. The voucher is one of the most distinct instruments that came with New Public Management. NPM is not regarded by some as flexible enough to incorporate voucher-like arrangements in employment service delivery when introduced from the bottom-up and against the will of policy makers. This article argues that this is a misconception. It explores the relationship between NPM and vouchers, and discusses the successful bottom-up introduction and incorporation of a voucher-like arrangement (Individual Re-Employment Contract) under New Public Management in the Netherlands, in spite of strong opposition from the top.
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